THAT DAY

Nature and memories help with the loss of a loved one.

A child cautiously walks through the crowd of unfamiliar people at home paying respects to the family after the loss of Grandma. Looking to get away from the sad scene, the child bundles up and takes a walk out in the snow, recalling the bonding moments shared with the beloved grandmother. A strong gust of wind reminds the protagonist of Grandma brushing her hair; a pine cone recalls Grandma’s bun; thick tree trunks call to mind her “ankles and how they hurt.” Eventually, Grandpa treks out to find his grandchild, and the two head home, boosted by their memories. This sentimental look at death and mourning is buoyed by its positive portrayal of the recently deceased and her relationship with the protagonist. As the child recalls the beloved grandmother, her face and body reflect the realities of getting older. The text, translated from French, contains short sentences that mostly start with “I remember,” making this a good choice to share with young readers. The illustrations’ bright color palette makes the harsh winter climate shine, yet occasionally clashes with the text; during the wake, for example, “everything seemed to be in black and white,” yet the scene is shown in bright yellows, oranges, and reds.

A tenderhearted story that shows that our loved ones never truly leave us.